BOLD Alumni: Jud Smith

In 2009, the Barrow County community elected a new Sheriff - Jud Smith. A local resident, Smith began his law enforcement career in Winder in 1999 after graduating from Winder-Barrow High School (WBHS) in 1994.

During his time at WBHS, Smith played basketball until his junior year and baseball throughout high school. The WBHS baseball team was ranked number one in the state at the time.

“I was blessed to be on a talented team with skilled teammates. Scouts were coming to watch us play, and I was fortunate enough to get a scholarship to Middle Georgia College,” said Smith.

Smith started his college journey in the fall of 1994 at Middle Georgia College, where his team won a National Championship. He later transferred to Columbus State University (CSU) and played baseball for a year before an arm injury ended his baseball career. He then pursued a degree in criminal justice, earning both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from CSU.

After completing his education, Smith began his law enforcement career in Winder. “I wanted to blaze my own path. I have always felt the call to serve others. I have been blessed to do it for over 23 years now,” said Smith. “I’ve been blessed to be elected by the good citizens of Barrow County.”

Smith is deeply rooted in the Barrow County community. He married a fellow WBHS graduate, and together they have raised two children in Winder. “We are very supportive of all Barrow County Schools and the community,” said Smith. “We’re Barrow Bold for a reason, and we want our students to be BOLD. Take chances and do the right thing.”

We are proud of our BOLD Alumni. Thank you, Sheriff Jud Smith, for sharing your story.

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